Volunteering is the heart and soul of the Houston Symphony League.
Our mission is:
To collaboratively support the Houston Symphony’s audience development, education, and fundraising activities with engaged volunteers.
There are many ways League members can volunteer to support our mission. This Handbook focuses on those activities that directly serve the Houston Symphony. If you are interested in volunteering for one or more of these opportunities, the names of the event chairs and contact information as well as how to sign up are at the bottom.
Volunteer Opportunities
Student Concerts
Student Concerts are a favorite among our volunteers and are the Symphony’s largest Education and Community Engagement events, serving almost 60,000 students each year. Upper elementary and middle-school children from across the Greater Houston area are bused to Jones Hall, where they are treated to concerts specifically created for them. The goal of the concerts is to inspire the children to learn to play an instrument or to continue playing their instrument. It is truly a joy to help them enter and exit Jones Hall and watch them experience the joys of symphonic music.
Volunteers greet students as their buses arrive, assist them in finding their entrance doors into Jones Hall, and help them return to their buses after the concerts. There are twelve days of Student Concerts each season, with two concerts per day. We serve an average of 5,000 students each concert day. As a bonus, volunteers are encouraged to sit in and enjoy one of the two concerts.
Time Commitment: Volunteers arrive by 8:30 am and leave between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm after all students have left Jones Hall. All Student Concerts are on weekdays, usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering for a Student Concert are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear dark pants and white tops. Comfortable shoes are a must! Name tags and Houston Symphony aprons are provided upon arrival.
Family Concerts
Family Concerts are special subscription concerts for families with young children. Each concert has a special theme, e.g., Holly Jolly Holidays, Get Up and Dance. Volunteers greet families as they enter Jones Hall, provide crafts related to the concert theme, and staff the ever-popular Instrument Petting Zoo, where children can hold and make sounds on various instruments. Depending upon the concert theme, additional activities may be added for the children. As a bonus, volunteers are encouraged to sit in and enjoy one of the two concerts.
Time Commitment: Volunteers arrive by 8:30 am and leave by 1:00 pm after the activities conclude. All Family Concerts are on Saturdays.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering for a Family Concert are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear dark pants and white tops. Comfortable shoes are a must! Name tags and Houston Symphony aprons are provided upon arrival.
Instrument Petting Zoo (IPZ)
Volunteers help children learn to hold and produce sound on various orchestral instruments, including strings, percussion, winds, and brass. The IPZ is available at all Family Concerts and select community events, e.g., Theater District Open House. You do not need to know how to play any instrument. You will be shown how to demonstrate this to young patrons prior to the concerts.
Crafts
The Craft Team prepares crafts for Family Concerts related to the concert theme. Crafts have included wands, masks, and many other such items. The Craft Team also prepares box violins every fall for the Symphony’s DeLUXE K!DS program. Members can sign up for Craft Preparation which is an evening of good food and conversation as we prepare craft materials and/or Family Concert Days to assist children with making their crafts on the morning of the Family Concerts. You don’t need to be an expert crafter to participate in either activity, and you can choose to do one or both!
In-Hall Concierge
Before select concerts, League members provide Concierge service to patrons. Such service includes welcoming new Symphony ticket subscribers, providing information about future concerts and subscription packages, answering questions about navigating Jones Hall, assisting the Symphony’s marketing or development staff with distributing materials, answering questions about the League, and more. New League Members receive priority in the selection of concert dates. As a thank you, volunteers are welcome to sit in and enjoy the concert.
Time Commitment: Volunteers should plan to arrive 90 minutes before the concert. The doors open an hour before concerts. Volunteers should plan to stay for 15-20 minutes after the concert, to answer any questions from patrons.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering to staff the Concierge table are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear concert attire. Name tags are provided upon arrival.
Musician and Staff Appreciation Breakfast and Lunch
The League shows its appreciation for the Houston Symphony musicians and staff with a breakfast and luncheon at Jones Hall during the season. Volunteers can supply and serve food and/or contribute money to defray the costs of these events. These events are a great way to meet and interact with the Symphony musicians and staff and are a fun time for all. The breakfast is usually held in the fall and the lunch in the spring.
Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering with the Houston Symphony offers meaningful personal and community benefits.
Impact on the Symphony and Community
Play an important role in supporting the Houston Symphony’s mission.
Help nearly 60,000 children each year enjoy memorable experiences learning about music and orchestral instruments.
Guide children as they explore how to make sounds on a variety of instruments.
Welcome guests at Symphony performances, answer questions, and help create a positive experience.
Enjoyment and Connection
Attend performances and enjoy hearing the Houston Symphony.
Build friendships with fellow League members who share your passion for the Symphony.
Get to know the musicians and staff who bring each performance to life.
Personal Well-Being
Volunteering can also support your physical and mental health. Research shows that volunteering may reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cognitive and emotional well-being.
How to Sign Up to Volunteer
Below are the names of the event chairs for each volunteer opportunity as well as their contact information. Please feel free to contact them for more information on how you can help.
For the 2024-2025 season, the Houston Symphony League won two Gold Awards of Excellence which is the highest award that the League of America Orchestras (LAO) bestows on volunteer organizations on a national scale. These awards are given through the Volunteer Council of LAO who provides support and professional development to Symphony volunteer organizations. These Gold Awards of Excellence honor best-in-class programs and initiatives that have significantly impacted their orchestras. Only six to eight awards are given each year across the nation.
The Houston Symphony League won two Gold Awards of Excellence
Driving Impact Through Sponsorships
Driving Revenue Through Membership Dues
The project “Driving Impact Through Sponsorships” was led by Heidi Rockecharlie who was the League President. The goals of the project were to reduce League expenses for six key events, increase the League’s annual contribution to the Houston Symphony, and increase awareness of the Houston Symphony and the Houston Symphony League in the Houston business community. Cash sponsorships amounted to $15,000 – $5,000 each for three of the events. In-kind donations from sponsoring businesses for two additional events generated $26,800 for a total of $41,800 in sponsorship support.
The project “Driving Revenue Through Membership Dues” was led by Heidi Rockecharlie and Leslie Nossaman who was League Co-Membership Chair and President-Elect. In our 89-year history, the League has never had benefits related to different levels of membership dues. Three changes were made to encourage members to renew or join at a higher level. First, benefits were added to the higher levels of $250 and above while maintaining our base membership level of $100 to remain competitive with other major arts organizations. Second, a $2000 level was added to a top level to “stretch” the dues up a major level to see if we could get more higher-level dues especially at the $1000 level. Third, the membership levels were renamed to sound more fun and attractive with a musical theme. This resulted in an increase in higher level dues from 30 to 50 higher levels and an increase in funds of $14,250. So, for minimal upfront effort we were able to increase our dues not only for this project year but in a way that would translate into future years’ growth from membership dues. For example, the 2025-2026 season had 64 higher level dues with $14,000 additional revenue over the previous year.
These awards are presented at the LAO Conference each year which is held across the nation. This year the LAO Conference took place in Baltimore, Maryland June 1-3, 2026. Leslie Nossaman, Immediate Past President at the time, presented both projects and accepted the awards on behalf of the League. Gary Ginstling, Executive Director and CEO of the Houston Symphony and Darlene Clark, Immediate Past President of the LAO Volunteer Council and HSL LAO Representative, were also in attendance at the awards ceremony.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Leslie Nossamanhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngLeslie Nossaman2026-07-28 13:48:332026-07-31 19:58:25The Houston Symphony League is Honored to Receive Two National Awards!
The Houston Symphony League hosted its annual Conversation with an Icon Luncheon on April 29, 2026, at the Omni Hotel, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and music enthusiasts for an inspiring afternoon celebrating the power of the arts. The event was co-chaired by Blanca Jolly and Saula Valente.
Centered around the theme The Impact of Music, the luncheon featured a captivating conversation between the 2026 Icon, Gina Gaston, and moderator Linda Lorelle. Gina has created 12 specials on the Houston Symphony over a 13-year partnership with the Symphony and so many more support efforts! Gina highlighted the Houston Symphony’s far-reaching Education and Community Engagement initiatives, which continue to transform lives across Greater Houston through music and arts education.
A meaningful addition to this year’s event was the Children’s Music Book Drive led by the Houston Symphony League and the Young Associates Council. Donations will benefit the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazer Committee ROPES Program, and the Houston Symphony, all of which had representatives to receive ceremonial books at the event.
Custom music-themed art pieces partially donated by Sneha Merchant were given to Gina Gaston, Kim Nordt-Jackson – the producer for KTRK, and Linda Lorelle as a thank you. The phrase Music Inspires, Teaches, Heals which is from the TV Segment Playing it Forward that Kim Nordt-Jackson created, was included on the art. Kim Nordt-Jackson said she was incredibly honored. KTRK created a custom video just for the Icon event and the mp4 file can be downloaded here.
The table settings included floral arrangements in soft lavender tones, which evoked a spring garden captured within a glass globe, like a scene framed in a window. Completing the table setting, a delicate cookie, shaped as a lavender dress similar to what was shown by the Carolina Herrera fashions, rested inside a box, as though tucked within a wardrobe. The elegant and fresh spring atmosphere perfectly echoed the spirit of the 2026 Spring collection by Carolina Herrera on the runway.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Brad Cavanaughhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngBrad Cavanaugh2026-06-22 20:53:522026-06-22 20:53:52Conversation with an ICON
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony League. This year’s honoree is Ann Tornyos. Ann and her late husband, Karl Tornyos, moved to Houston from New Orleans in June 2005 and began attending the Houston Symphony’s Classical Series.
Her first exposure to the Houston Symphony League was the B# Brunch series. In 2014, Ann became Corresponding Secretary for the League and in 2015 served as Chair of the Crafts Committee, which provided educational activities for the Family Concerts and the holiday Magical Musical Morning.
In 2017, she was honored to receive the Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award along with her Craft Committee co-chair, Kristin Turnak. In 2022, as a member of the Executive Committee, Ann served on the By-Laws Committee that updated the League’s By-laws. She served as Parliamentarian in 2022-23 and Recording Secretary in 2023-24 while also being jointly responsible for the crafts for the Family Concerts.
Ann contributed to the Ima Hogg Competitions with food and funds. She participated in the funding of the Steinway grand piano for the Symphony and supported the Musician’s and Staff Luncheons, and she is a member of the Symphony’s Legacy Society. She regularly works the Family Concerts and is always positioned at the popular Crafts table. She has also been an avid supporter of the League’s project to support a Symphony orchestra member.
Ann has served the HSL with courage, purpose, and heart, and through her HSL work, is helping to shape the next generation of perhaps lifelong artists and certainly lifelong audiences.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Brad Cavanaughhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngBrad Cavanaugh2026-06-18 17:51:332026-06-18 17:51:332026 Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year – Ann Kennedy Tornyos
The Houston Symphony League proudly hosted its 5th Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon on Wednesday, March 26, at the Houston Country Club. This year’s event, honored the renowned Saks Fifth Avenue, a valued partner and long-time supporter of the Houston Symphony League, reminiscent of the wildly successful annual Maestro Luncheon & Fashion Show of the 90’s.
The event featured Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, Houston. Guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Ms. Turney and acclaimed journalist Shelby Hodge, who was also honored as the League’s Icon in 2023. The conversation was followed by an impressive Spring fashion show, orchestrated by expert stylist, Jeanne Ruberti for Saks Fifth Avenue, which beautifully showcased the elegance and creativity that both institutions are known for.
Co-chairs and long-time supporters of the Houston Symphony, Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, delivered a heartfelt tribute to community leadership, creativity, and volunteerism as they recognized three exemplary Houstonians:
Hallie Vanderhider & Bobby Dees – Community Honorees, recognized for their longstanding commitment to education, the arts, and philanthropy across numerous organizations.
Beth Wolff – Houston Symphony League Honoree, celebrated for her groundbreaking leadership of Houston real estate and her unwavering support of the League and many charitable and civic initiatives.
League President Heidi Rockecharlie recognized the extraordinary efforts of the League’s many volunteers, and shared highlights of their remarkable accomplishments this year, including record membership growth, the implementation of a cost-cutting event sponsorship program, enriching the Icon fundraising concept, and ongoing support for the Houston Symphony’s education and outreach initiatives, which are projected to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season—over 130,000 of whom are children. She also recognized Honorary Committee Chair, Lesha Elsenbrook for her long-standing dedication to the League.
Proceeds from the luncheon directly benefit the Houston Symphony’s industry-leading Education and Community Engagement programs, including in-school residencies, the Music and Wellness initiative, the In Harmony program, and the Harry and Cora Sue Mach Student Concert Series.
“Today was a celebration of those who give back,” said President Rockecharlie. “We are deeply grateful for everyone who made this day possible and for all who continue to support our world-class, Grammy Award-winning Symphony Orchestra. Together, we are making music—and a difference.”
Thank you to PaperCity, The Social Book, CultureMap and The Buzz Magazines for the coverage of this event.
Good tempo. The major keys were Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, who chaired the Fifth Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon at Houston Country Club benefiting the Houston Symphony League. With rhythm and harmony, president Heidi Rockecharlieconducted a score of the League’s accomplishments and outreach initiatives, with projections to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season, over 130,000 of whom are children. Guests enjoyed an engaging repertoire between ICON honoree Heidi Turney (VP and GM of longtime supporter Saks Fifth Avenue) and journalist Shelby Hodge, who were followed by models in spring clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue. Three exemplary Houstonians Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees, and Beth Wolff were honored for their rhapsody of unwavering support.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-05-06 13:58:452026-06-18 17:52:52Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 2025 Conversations with an ICON
In service to the Houston Symphony League, Susan Osterberg is guided by Shakespeare’s words, “The quality of giving blesses twice: he who receives and he who gives”.
Susan’s leadership and philanthropic roles have included HSL President in 2012-2013, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, Government Affairs, the President’s Council, Strategic Planning, Arts Advocacy, Mentorship Program, Fall Luncheon Co-chair, Nominations Chair, Ima Hogg Competition, and Community Engagement. She has given support to the Annual Fund, Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture, Underwriting chair for Opening Night, and chaired the HS Legacy Society Luncheon. In addition, Susan has led campaigns for government funding of the arts, assisted with the HSL Musician Staff Appreciation events, ushered at Student Concerts & Family Concerts, the Symphony Store, Magical Musical Morning, Casino Night 2024, and gathered auction items for the annual Symphony Ball.
When asked about memorable HSL involvement, two events come to mind. Bordeaux on the Bayou, which received the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Book Award, was an arts evening with community outreach and was shared among the Houston Symphony League, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and the City of Houston Parks and Recreation. The event was held in the Vine Street Studios and brought together 23 arts groups who contributed to the arts evening. Attendees were surrounded by the world of performing and visual arts, friendship, and Bordeaux wine.
The second memorable initiative was HSL’s 75th Anniversary year, honoring the Diamond Anniversary Celebration, during Susan’s HSL presidency in 2012-2013. Amid twinkling lights, in the Gardens of Bayou Bend, members and friends of the League gathered to celebrate the legacy of the organization’s founder, Miss Ima Hogg. Highlights of the evening included proclamations from Mayor Anise Parker and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. During that year, Susan led the efforts for the League’s gift of a Steinway Piano for the symphony
Professionally, Susan has been a lifelong arts advocate and arts educator. She has devoted her professional career to the field of arts communication and is an educator in the Department of Arts and Communication in the University of Houston System.
Various other professional assignments have included her association with the Nina Vance Alley Theatre, the Elementary School for Creative and Performing Arts, and a residency at the National Endowment for the Arts. Susan was one of three American women selected to represent the United States in Sierra Leone, where she introduced the arts of Texas to the people of West Africa.
Susan is married to Edward C. Osterberg, Jr. They have one son, Charles, a partner at Urology Austin in Austin, Texas.
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-05-03 15:44:342025-05-18 16:18:372025 ELLEN KELLEY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD – SUSAN SNIDER OSTERBERG
Volunteer Handbook
/in Volunteer/by Deborah HappVolunteering is the heart and soul of the Houston Symphony League.
Our mission is:
To collaboratively support the Houston Symphony’s audience development, education, and fundraising activities with engaged volunteers.
There are many ways League members can volunteer to support our mission. This Handbook focuses on those activities that directly serve the Houston Symphony. If you are interested in volunteering for one or more of these opportunities, the names of the event chairs and contact information as well as how to sign up are at the bottom.
Volunteer Opportunities
Student Concerts
Student Concerts are a favorite among our volunteers and are the Symphony’s largest Education and Community Engagement events, serving almost 60,000 students each year. Upper elementary and middle-school children from across the Greater Houston area are bused to Jones Hall, where they are treated to concerts specifically created for them. The goal of the concerts is to inspire the children to learn to play an instrument or to continue playing their instrument. It is truly a joy to help them enter and exit Jones Hall and watch them experience the joys of symphonic music.
Volunteers greet students as their buses arrive, assist them in finding their entrance doors into Jones Hall, and help them return to their buses after the concerts. There are twelve days of Student Concerts each season, with two concerts per day. We serve an average of 5,000 students each concert day. As a bonus, volunteers are encouraged to sit in and enjoy one of the two concerts.
Time Commitment: Volunteers arrive by 8:30 am and leave between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm after all students have left Jones Hall. All Student Concerts are on weekdays, usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering for a Student Concert are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear dark pants and white tops. Comfortable shoes are a must! Name tags and Houston Symphony aprons are provided upon arrival.
Family Concerts
Family Concerts are special subscription concerts for families with young children. Each concert has a special theme, e.g., Holly Jolly Holidays, Get Up and Dance. Volunteers greet families as they enter Jones Hall, provide crafts related to the concert theme, and staff the ever-popular Instrument Petting Zoo, where children can hold and make sounds on various instruments. Depending upon the concert theme, additional activities may be added for the children. As a bonus, volunteers are encouraged to sit in and enjoy one of the two concerts.
Time Commitment: Volunteers arrive by 8:30 am and leave by 1:00 pm after the activities conclude. All Family Concerts are on Saturdays.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering for a Family Concert are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear dark pants and white tops. Comfortable shoes are a must! Name tags and Houston Symphony aprons are provided upon arrival.
Instrument Petting Zoo (IPZ)
Volunteers help children learn to hold and produce sound on various orchestral instruments, including strings, percussion, winds, and brass. The IPZ is available at all Family Concerts and select community events, e.g., Theater District Open House. You do not need to know how to play any instrument. You will be shown how to demonstrate this to young patrons prior to the concerts.
Crafts
The Craft Team prepares crafts for Family Concerts related to the concert theme. Crafts have included wands, masks, and many other such items. The Craft Team also prepares box violins every fall for the Symphony’s DeLUXE K!DS program. Members can sign up for Craft Preparation which is an evening of good food and conversation as we prepare craft materials and/or Family Concert Days to assist children with making their crafts on the morning of the Family Concerts. You don’t need to be an expert crafter to participate in either activity, and you can choose to do one or both!
In-Hall Concierge
Before select concerts, League members provide Concierge service to patrons. Such service includes welcoming new Symphony ticket subscribers, providing information about future concerts and subscription packages, answering questions about navigating Jones Hall, assisting the Symphony’s marketing or development staff with distributing materials, answering questions about the League, and more. New League Members receive priority in the selection of concert dates. As a thank you, volunteers are welcome to sit in and enjoy the concert.
Time Commitment: Volunteers should plan to arrive 90 minutes before the concert. The doors open an hour before concerts. Volunteers should plan to stay for 15-20 minutes after the concert, to answer any questions from patrons.
Cancellations: Persons who commit to volunteering to staff the Concierge table are expected to be present on those days. However, it is understood that circumstances may arise that prevent you from being present. In those cases, we ask that you contact the event chair as soon as possible. This allows time to find a replacement or to reorganize the schedule.
What to Wear: Volunteers are encouraged to wear concert attire. Name tags are provided upon arrival.
Musician and Staff Appreciation Breakfast and Lunch
The League shows its appreciation for the Houston Symphony musicians and staff with a breakfast and luncheon at Jones Hall during the season. Volunteers can supply and serve food and/or contribute money to defray the costs of these events. These events are a great way to meet and interact with the Symphony musicians and staff and are a fun time for all. The breakfast is usually held in the fall and the lunch in the spring.
Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering with the Houston Symphony offers meaningful personal and community benefits.
Impact on the Symphony and Community
Enjoyment and Connection
Personal Well-Being
Volunteering can also support your physical and mental health. Research shows that volunteering may reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cognitive and emotional well-being.
How to Sign Up to Volunteer
Below are the names of the event chairs for each volunteer opportunity as well as their contact information. Please feel free to contact them for more information on how you can help.
Student Concerts
Sign up by clicking
this SignUpGenius link
or contact Deb Happ at dahapp37@gmail.com
Family Concerts
Sign up by clicking
this SignUpGenius link
or contact Darlene Clark at edwincf@swbell.net
Instrument Petting Zoo
Contact Mary Roberts at mary.laneva.roberts@gmail.com
Crafts
Contact Ann Tornyos at anntnola@gmail.com
or Kristin Turnak at kgturnak@outlook.com
In-Hall Concierge
Contact Erika Westberry at professional.landman@yahoo.com
Musician and Staff Appreciation Breakfast and Lunch
Contact Bob Chanon at robert.chanon@gmail.com
or Patty McFall at mcfallpatty@gmail.com
The Houston Symphony League is Honored to Receive Two National Awards!
/in Award/by Leslie NossamanThe Houston Symphony League won two Gold Awards of Excellence
The project “Driving Impact Through Sponsorships” was led by Heidi Rockecharlie who was the League President. The goals of the project were to reduce League expenses for six key events, increase the League’s annual contribution to the Houston Symphony, and increase awareness of the Houston Symphony and the Houston Symphony League in the Houston business community. Cash sponsorships amounted to $15,000 – $5,000 each for three of the events. In-kind donations from sponsoring businesses for two additional events generated $26,800 for a total of $41,800 in sponsorship support.
The project “Driving Revenue Through Membership Dues” was led by Heidi Rockecharlie and Leslie Nossaman who was League Co-Membership Chair and President-Elect. In our 89-year history, the League has never had benefits related to different levels of membership dues. Three changes were made to encourage members to renew or join at a higher level. First, benefits were added to the higher levels of $250 and above while maintaining our base membership level of $100 to remain competitive with other major arts organizations. Second, a $2000 level was added to a top level to “stretch” the dues up a major level to see if we could get more higher-level dues especially at the $1000 level. Third, the membership levels were renamed to sound more fun and attractive with a musical theme. This resulted in an increase in higher level dues from 30 to 50 higher levels and an increase in funds of $14,250. So, for minimal upfront effort we were able to increase our dues not only for this project year but in a way that would translate into future years’ growth from membership dues. For example, the 2025-2026 season had 64 higher level dues with $14,000 additional revenue over the previous year.
These awards are presented at the LAO Conference each year which is held across the nation. This year the LAO Conference took place in Baltimore, Maryland June 1-3, 2026. Leslie Nossaman, Immediate Past President at the time, presented both projects and accepted the awards on behalf of the League. Gary Ginstling, Executive Director and CEO of the Houston Symphony and Darlene Clark, Immediate Past President of the LAO Volunteer Council and HSL LAO Representative, were also in attendance at the awards ceremony.
Conversation with an ICON
/in Event/by Brad CavanaughThe Houston Symphony League hosted its annual Conversation with an Icon Luncheon on April 29, 2026, at the Omni Hotel, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and music enthusiasts for an inspiring afternoon celebrating the power of the arts. The event was co-chaired by Blanca Jolly and Saula Valente.
Centered around the theme The Impact of Music, the luncheon featured a captivating conversation between the 2026 Icon, Gina Gaston, and moderator Linda Lorelle. Gina has created 12 specials on the Houston Symphony over a 13-year partnership with the Symphony and so many more support efforts! Gina highlighted the Houston Symphony’s far-reaching Education and Community Engagement initiatives, which continue to transform lives across Greater Houston through music and arts education.
A meaningful addition to this year’s event was the Children’s Music Book Drive led by the Houston Symphony League and the Young Associates Council. Donations will benefit the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazer Committee ROPES Program, and the Houston Symphony, all of which had representatives to receive ceremonial books at the event.
Custom music-themed art pieces partially donated by Sneha Merchant were given to Gina Gaston, Kim Nordt-Jackson – the producer for KTRK, and Linda Lorelle as a thank you. The phrase Music Inspires, Teaches, Heals which is from the TV Segment Playing it Forward that Kim Nordt-Jackson created, was included on the art. Kim Nordt-Jackson said she was incredibly honored. KTRK created a custom video just for the Icon event and the mp4 file can be downloaded here.
The table settings included floral arrangements in soft lavender tones, which evoked a spring garden captured within a glass globe, like a scene framed in a window. Completing the table setting, a delicate cookie, shaped as a lavender dress similar to what was shown by the Carolina Herrera fashions, rested inside a box, as though tucked within a wardrobe. The elegant and fresh spring atmosphere perfectly echoed the spirit of the 2026 Spring collection by Carolina Herrera on the runway.
2026 Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year – Ann Kennedy Tornyos
/in Award/by Brad CavanaughHer first exposure to the Houston Symphony League was the B# Brunch series. In 2014, Ann became Corresponding Secretary for the League and in 2015 served as Chair of the Crafts Committee, which provided educational activities for the Family Concerts and the holiday Magical Musical Morning.
In 2017, she was honored to receive the Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award along with her Craft Committee co-chair, Kristin Turnak. In 2022, as a member of the Executive Committee, Ann served on the By-Laws Committee that updated the League’s By-laws. She served as Parliamentarian in 2022-23 and Recording Secretary in 2023-24 while also being jointly responsible for the crafts for the Family Concerts.
Ann contributed to the Ima Hogg Competitions with food and funds. She participated in the funding of the Steinway grand piano for the Symphony and supported the Musician’s and Staff Luncheons, and she is a member of the Symphony’s Legacy Society. She regularly works the Family Concerts and is always positioned at the popular Crafts table. She has also been an avid supporter of the League’s project to support a Symphony orchestra member.
Ann has served the HSL with courage, purpose, and heart, and through her HSL work, is helping to shape the next generation of perhaps lifelong artists and certainly lifelong audiences.
Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 2025 Conversations with an ICON
/in Event, News/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThe Houston Symphony League proudly hosted its 5th Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon on Wednesday, March 26, at the Houston Country Club. This year’s event, honored the renowned Saks Fifth Avenue, a valued partner and long-time supporter of the Houston Symphony League, reminiscent of the wildly successful annual Maestro Luncheon & Fashion Show of the 90’s.
The event featured Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, Houston. Guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Ms. Turney and acclaimed journalist Shelby Hodge, who was also honored as the League’s Icon in 2023. The conversation was followed by an impressive Spring fashion show, orchestrated by expert stylist, Jeanne Ruberti for Saks Fifth Avenue, which beautifully showcased the elegance and creativity that both institutions are known for.
Co-chairs and long-time supporters of the Houston Symphony, Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, delivered a heartfelt tribute to community leadership, creativity, and volunteerism as they recognized three exemplary Houstonians:
League President Heidi Rockecharlie recognized the extraordinary efforts of the League’s many volunteers, and shared highlights of their remarkable accomplishments this year, including record membership growth, the implementation of a cost-cutting event sponsorship program, enriching the Icon fundraising concept, and ongoing support for the Houston Symphony’s education and outreach initiatives, which are projected to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season—over 130,000 of whom are children. She also recognized Honorary Committee Chair, Lesha Elsenbrook for her long-standing dedication to the League.
Proceeds from the luncheon directly benefit the Houston Symphony’s industry-leading Education and Community Engagement programs, including in-school residencies, the Music and Wellness initiative, the In Harmony program, and the Harry and Cora Sue Mach Student Concert Series.
“Today was a celebration of those who give back,” said President Rockecharlie. “We are deeply grateful for everyone who made this day possible and for all who continue to support our world-class, Grammy Award-winning Symphony Orchestra. Together, we are making music—and a difference.”
Thank you to PaperCity, The Social Book, CultureMap and The Buzz Magazines for the coverage of this event.
Excerpt from The Buzz Magazines
Good tempo. The major keys were Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, who chaired the Fifth Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon at Houston Country Club benefiting the Houston Symphony League. With rhythm and harmony, president Heidi Rockecharlieconducted a score of the League’s accomplishments and outreach initiatives, with projections to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season, over 130,000 of whom are children. Guests enjoyed an engaging repertoire between ICON honoree Heidi Turney (VP and GM of longtime supporter Saks Fifth Avenue) and journalist Shelby Hodge, who were followed by models in spring clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue. Three exemplary Houstonians Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees, and Beth Wolff were honored for their rhapsody of unwavering support.
2025 ELLEN KELLEY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD – SUSAN SNIDER OSTERBERG
/in Award, Volunteer/by Tracie Welch-BrentonIn service to the Houston Symphony League, Susan Osterberg is guided by Shakespeare’s words, “The quality of giving blesses twice: he who receives and he who gives”.
Susan’s leadership and philanthropic roles have included HSL President in 2012-2013, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, Government Affairs, the President’s Council, Strategic Planning, Arts Advocacy, Mentorship Program, Fall Luncheon Co-chair, Nominations Chair, Ima Hogg Competition, and Community Engagement. She has given support to the Annual Fund, Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture, Underwriting chair for Opening Night, and chaired the HS Legacy Society Luncheon. In addition, Susan has led campaigns for government funding of the arts, assisted with the HSL Musician Staff Appreciation events, ushered at Student Concerts & Family Concerts, the Symphony Store, Magical Musical Morning, Casino Night 2024, and gathered auction items for the annual Symphony Ball.
When asked about memorable HSL involvement, two events come to mind. Bordeaux on the Bayou, which received the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Book Award, was an arts evening with community outreach and was shared among the Houston Symphony League, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and the City of Houston Parks and Recreation. The event was held in the Vine Street Studios and brought together 23 arts groups who contributed to the arts evening. Attendees were surrounded by the world of performing and visual arts, friendship, and Bordeaux wine.
The second memorable initiative was HSL’s 75th Anniversary year, honoring the Diamond Anniversary Celebration, during Susan’s HSL presidency in 2012-2013. Amid twinkling lights, in the Gardens of Bayou Bend, members and friends of the League gathered to celebrate the legacy of the organization’s founder, Miss Ima Hogg. Highlights of the evening included proclamations from Mayor Anise Parker and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. During that year, Susan led the efforts for the League’s gift of a Steinway Piano for the symphony
Professionally, Susan has been a lifelong arts advocate and arts educator. She has devoted her professional career to the field of arts communication and is an educator in the Department of Arts and Communication in the University of Houston System.
Various other professional assignments have included her association with the Nina Vance Alley Theatre, the Elementary School for Creative and Performing Arts, and a residency at the National Endowment for the Arts. Susan was one of three American women selected to represent the United States in Sierra Leone, where she introduced the arts of Texas to the people of West Africa.
Susan is married to Edward C. Osterberg, Jr. They have one son, Charles, a partner at Urology Austin in Austin, Texas.
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.